For many Brooklyn residents, Marco Chirico is a familiar face. A restaurateur, restaurant advocate, and lifelong member of the community, Marco has deep roots in the neighborhood that stretch back generations.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Marco grew up on 3rd Place in Carroll Gardens, where his family established their restaurant in 1983. Today, he and his wife, Toniann, have built a life in Carroll Gardens/Cobble Hill, where they have lived for the past 14 years. Family remains at the center of everything Marco does. He is the son of Joe and Rosa Chirico and has three sisters—Donna, Cathy, and Roseann. The family also includes Cuban, their beloved Chow Chow.

A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Marco has dedicated his career to the restaurant industry. Beyond his work, he is passionate about supporting local schools, charitable organizations, and neighborhood initiatives. Through both his professional and community involvement, he continues to contribute to the area that has shaped his life.

When he’s not working, Marco enjoys spending time outdoors. Golf has become his favorite pastime, offering both relaxation and a chance to recharge. During the summer, he enjoys heading to the beach and embracing the outdoors, finding that nature is the best way to clear his mind.

Travel has also played an important role in Marco’s life. One of his fondest childhood memories is spending summers near Reggio Calabria in southern Italy. Although the journey from New York was long, the reward was unforgettable: crystal-clear water, beautiful beaches, fresh food, and the charm of a small town surrounded by nature and ancient medieval ruins.

As an adult, Marco continues to seek out memorable culinary experiences around the world. One of his most inspiring recent trips was to Japan, where he had the opportunity to dine at Marumo by Yuki Motokura, one of the world’s most celebrated pizzerias. The experience sparked new ideas in his ongoing pursuit of the perfect pizza dough. The connection came full circle when Chef Motokura later visited New York and dined at Marco Polo.

Food, unsurprisingly, is at the heart of family life. Marco’s signature family meal is Sunday lasagna; a dish deeply rooted in Italian tradition and one that brings both children and adults together around the table. He also enjoys exploring different cuisines when dining out and is always eager to discover new flavors and experiences.

When it comes to entertainment, Marco is a fan of classic television shows such as Entourage and Seinfeld, as well as ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentaries. His favorite movies include all three Rush Hour films and the iconic Rocky series. On game day, he can be found cheering for the Knicks, Yankees, Giants, and Juventus.

Marco and Toniann’s story began in college. Although they first met there, it wasn’t until they reconnected through mutual friends after returning to New York that their relationship truly began. The rest, as they say, is history.

What Marco loves most about living in the neighborhood is its unique balance. Residents have access to everything they need within a short distance, while still enjoying a sense of community that feels more suburban than urban. It is this combination of convenience, character, and connection that keeps him rooted here.

One final piece of family history that many neighbors may not know: before opening Marco Polo, Marco’s father owned Joe’s Luncheonette, another cherished chapter in the family’s long-standing connection to the neighborhood.